Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for both residents and visitors. Understanding UV levels plays a vital role in preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health, especially in a tropical paradise where the sun shines brightly year-round. With a climate zone categorized as As (tropical wet and dry), Puerto Vallarta experiences significant UV exposure, peaking at levels that can reach 13 during midday hours. Staying informed about these UV risks ensures that you can safely enjoy the stunning beaches and vibrant outdoor activities that this beautiful destination has to offer!
Throughout the day, the UV Index reflects a dynamic shift in sun intensity, beginning with a low of 0 at 7:00 AM. As the sun rises, the index climbs steadily, reaching 2 by 9:00 AM and peaking at an impressive 13 between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM. This mid-afternoon high signals a critical period for sun safety, with a peak reading of 12 at 1:00 PM. As the sun begins to set, the index drops gradually, returning to 3 by 6:00 PM, finally settling at 1 by 7:00 PM. It’s a reminder of the sun's power, urging us to protect our skin during the sunniest hours of the day!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 16:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal variations, peaking during the spring and summer months. January and February see very high levels with UV Index ratings of 8 and 10, requiring residents and visitors to limit exposure to 15 minutes. Risk escalates in March and April, with extreme UV Index values of 13 and 14, reducing safe sun exposure time to 10 minutes. The highest risk months are April through October, where the UV Index stays at extreme levels, making it crucial to take precautions. With UV Index levels consistently around 13-14 from April through September and tapering off to 12 in October, awareness of sun protection becomes vital. By November, UV levels drop slightly to 9 and 8 in December, but caution is still necessary. Visitors and residents are advised to wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and seek shade, especially during peak sun hours, to minimize the risk of skin damage and ensure safety when enjoying outdoor activities.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Puerto Vallarta | 8 | 10 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 7 |
| Guadalajara UVI | 9 | 11 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
| Iztapalapa UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 |
| Ecatepec de Morelos UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 |
| Mexico City UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 |
| Puebla UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 |